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Strasburg scheduled for March 9 debut

Strasburg scheduled for March 9 debut

VIERA, Fla. -- The Nationals have tentatively scheduled right-hander Stephen Strasburg to make his Spring Training debut on March 9 against the Tigers at Space Coast Stadium.

Strasburg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 First-Year Player Draft, is expected to pitch two innings or throw 30 to 40 pitches.

Washington pitching coach Steve McCatty said he is looking forward to watching the phenom throw against big league hitters.

"This will be my first chance to see him face hitters. Everybody is really excited," McCatty said. "We'll see how it goes. Who knows what's going to happen after that. We are just going to go and see how it's going to works out. We are going to have a rain day every once in a while, so everything is always done in pencil."

Pitcher John Lannan can't wait to see his new teammate throw. Lannan expects a big crowd at Space Coast Stadium.

"It's going to be the coolest feeling," Lannan said. "He probably will have a lot of emotions going. We'll see how he handles himself. It's going to be a great day for the Nationals, just because it's going to be a long time coming. It's just the first step in his career in the big leagues. I wish the best for him."

Bill Ladson is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.